Lightning sparks house fire in Moyock

MOYOCK, N.C. (WAVY) – A lightning strike caused a home to catch fire in Moyock off Summit Farms Trail Thursday night, according to the Moyock Fire Department.

Firefighters got the call around 7:15 p.m. and ten fire trucks from Moyock, Chesapeake, and Crawford Township responded. It took twice the normal amount of time to respond because of downed power lines on the roads leading to the home, according to Chief Chip Melton.

Neighbor J.T. Teger said it happened during two hours of severe thunderstorms Thursday night.

“It was horrible. Lightning strikes left and right. They were getting so close. We were getting scared ourselves at the house,” Teger said.

Ronda Ross, who lives down the street, said many neighbors came outside when they heard the lightning strike.

“It was pretty surreal. It’s like, ‘Wow.’ This is happening just yards away in a house that’s only been there for about four or five years, and your hearts just go out to them. We’re all talking about what we can do for him and the family,” Ross said.

Firefighters had to use water from their trucks, since there isn’t a close fire hydrant in the rural neighborhood, Melton said.

“Thank God nobody was hurt. That’s all. A house can be replaced, but I know that everybody was safe, and that’s what was going through my mind,” Teger said.

A neighbor said the family believes the home is a total loss. Chief Melton said the fire was contained to the roof and second floor, and there was heavy smoke and water damage throughout the house.